Small Things You Can Do to Help Curb Climate Change and Become More Resilient

 

A lot of us wonder what we can do to help solve the climate crisis. But in the face of corporate greed, political inaction, and the sheer scale of the problem, it’s easy to feel powerless or hopeless. Still, it’s important to remember that small actions—when taken collectively—can lead to big change.

We all have agency, and we all have choices. By making thoughtful, sustainable decisions in our daily lives, we not only reduce our personal environmental footprint but also become more resilient in the face of an uncertain future.

In this post, we’ll explore practical, achievable actions you can take across five key areas: Your Home, Your Garden, Transportation, Consumer Behaviour, and Advocacy. Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or looking to deepen your commitment, we hope you find something here to inspire you.

 

Your Home

Aside from the carbon embedded in the construction of your house, the energy consumed during its lifetime—especially for heating and cooling—has a significant environmental impact. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce that impact while saving money and improving comfort.

1. Reduce heat gain and loss:

Insulate walls, ceilings, and windows to minimise the energy needed for heating and cooling. Install weather stripping, use heavy curtains, and seal leaks to prevent drafts.

2. Switch to LED lighting:

LEDs use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer.

3. Improve energy efficiency:

Upgrade appliances to energy-efficient models. Use smart thermostats and timers to reduce unnecessary energy use.

4. Consider renewable energy:

If possible, install solar panels or join a community solar program. For those reading who have the option to choose their energy provider, switching to a green energy provider can make a difference.

5. Water conservation:

Install low-flow fixtures, collect rainwater for irrigation, and fix leaks promptly—wasted water also means wasted energy.

 

Your Garden

Modern gardens often prioritise aesthetics over ecology—lawns and exotic plants can create sterile environments that do little to support pollinators or biodiversity. But a few changes can turn your outdoor space into a resilient, nature-friendly haven.

1. Let it be a little wild:

Avoid excessive pruning and mowing. Let native plants, grasses, and wildflowers thrive.

2. Remove or reduce your lawn:

Lawns are water- and chemical-intensive. Replace sections with native groundcovers, flower beds, or veggie plots.

3. Choose indigenous plants:

Native plants are better suited to local conditions, need less maintenance, and support local wildlife and pollinators.

4. Install drip irrigation:

Drip systems deliver water directly to roots, minimising waste and promoting healthier growth.

5. Grow your own food:

Start small with herbs or salad greens. It reduces your carbon footprint and reconnects you to the food you eat.

 

Transportation

Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. While some changes require infrastructure or policy support, there are still meaningful ways individuals can make a difference.

1. Walk, cycle, or take public transit:

Whenever possible, choose lower-emission modes of transport. It’s good for the planet—and for your health.

2. Drive less and plan trips efficiently:

Combine errands, work remotely when possible, or consider carpooling with coworkers or neighbours.

3. Maintain your vehicle:

Well-maintained engines, properly inflated tires, and clean filters improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

4. Choose greener vehicles:

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider electric, hybrid, or smaller fuel-efficient models.

 

Consumer Behavior

We can’t always control what corporations do, but we can control how we spend our money. Every rand, euro or dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. With a little research and intention, your consumer choices can have a powerful ripple effect.

1. Reduce plastic use:

Avoid single-use plastics, bring your own bags and containers, and opt for products packaged in glass or with minimal or compostable packaging.

2. Be brand-aware:

Support companies with ethical labour practices, sustainability commitments, and transparent supply chains.

3. Avoid food waste:

Plan meals, store food properly, and compost scraps. Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Buy less, choose better:

Say no to fast fashion. Invest in high-quality, timeless items and take care of what you own.

5. Repair before replacing:

Mend clothes, fix appliances, and get creative about extending the life of your belongings.

6. Think before you buy:

Ask yourself: Do I need this? Can I borrow, buy second-hand, or find a more sustainable option?

 

Advocacy

While individual action is important, we won’t solve the climate crisis without collective efforts. Advocacy is about using your voice, your vote, and your time to support broader change.

1. Support organisations doing the work:

There are thousands of NGOs and grassroots movements working on climate mitigation, reforestation, education, environmental justice, and more. Find one that resonates with you and consider donating or volunteering.

2. Educate yourself and others:

Read books, watch documentaries, attend events, and share what you learn with friends and family. The more informed we are, the stronger the movements become.

3. Get involved politically:

Vote for candidates and political parties who prioritise climate action. Support climate policies at the local, state, and national levels. Contact your representatives and let them know this issue matters to you.

4. Engage your community:

Start a local sustainability initiative, organise cleanups, host a climate conversation, or simply inspire your friends and family by leading by example.

 

Conclusion

Curbing climate change and building resilience starts with awareness, but it doesn’t stop there. The small, consistent choices we make every day—at home, in our gardens, on our commutes, at the checkout counter, and in our communities—matter.

While the challenge is great, so too is our capacity for change. No action is too small when millions are moving in the same direction.